Shocked at suckers

Thanks to Ted Williams and HCN for the article "Suckers for Gold" (6/9/14). First, I was surprised that such an "enterprise" exists. Then, I was outraged at the ways these "miners" disturb riverbeds and fragile habitat for fish and other creatures. Finally, I was shocked to learn that my own state of Washington has not yet developed regulations to rein in these disruptive practices! So I am sending letters to my reps today!